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Easy French Toast Casserole Recipe with Fresh Berries Perfect for Breakfast

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An easy and delicious French toast casserole soaked overnight in a cinnamon-vanilla custard, topped with fresh berries. Perfect for cozy weekend breakfasts, brunches, or holiday mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf thick-cut brioche or challah bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cube the bread into roughly 1-inch cubes and spread evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or half-and-half, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until smooth and slightly frothy.
  3. Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to help absorb the liquid. Let soak for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours) for best results.
  4. Just before baking, scatter fresh mixed berries evenly over the soaked bread.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, slice into squares, and serve warm with maple syrup or whipped cream.

Notes

Use day-old bread for better custard absorption. Soaking overnight in the fridge yields the best texture. For a crisper top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully. Butter or spray the baking dish to prevent sticking. Frozen berries can be used if thawed and drained. Dairy-free and gluten-free substitutions are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast casserole, breakfast casserole, fresh berries, easy breakfast, brunch recipe, cinnamon vanilla custard, brioche casserole